HOMAGE TO 2020
Fall/Winter 2021

“Homage to 2020” is a bold and reflective statement on the trials of a pivotal year. The 10-look collection blends historical references with modern struggles, capturing themes of resilience, protest, and transformation. Developed during her time in Paris, Grays’ work channels the juxtaposition of looking at the United States from afar while staying connected through conversations with family and media.

“Homage to 2020” pays tribute to the upheavals of that year—police brutality, protests, the global health crisis, and election challenges—especially for marginalized communities. As ESSENCE noted, “The collection embodies an intentional elevated ruggedness, featuring patchwork that feels ripped and worn, splattered prints, and raw edges, all which can be interpreted to represent the physical and emotional struggles 2020 brought on for many.”

Grays’ use of fabric manipulations and contrasting materials underscores these themes. From utilitarian wool and cotton to luxurious silk and satin, her designs strike a balance between the rugged and the refined. The pieces incorporate artistic screen printing, layered patterns, and distressed textures, reflecting the anger, confusion, and hope that marked the year. Draped silhouettes paired with structured elements showcase the contrasts of 2020, while utilitarian details suggest a militant aura—a nod to resilience and resistance.

One of the most striking influences for this collection is deeply personal. As highlighted in Vogue, a key inspiration was Grays’ grandfather, a soldier. His legacy, strength, and sacrifice informed the powerful imagery behind the designs, particularly the vintage photograph of an American soldier flexing his muscles—a visual anchor for the collection. “Homage to 2020” extends this narrative by weaving together the struggles of a turbulent year with echoes of history.

As the models walked to the solemn hum of Reggie’s “I don’t want to feel no more,” their movements illustrated the lives of urban youth and the perseverance of communities most affected by the year’s challenges. Grays noted her desire to bridge cultural gaps while rediscovering her identity as a designer and storyteller. “Each garment was made to represent the challenges we overcame in 2020, but with a historical approach,” she shared.

Through her signature mix of prints and innovative textile techniques, Chelsea Grays has crafted a collection that transcends fashion. “Homage to 2020” is not just clothing—it’s a commentary on survival, community, and the enduring power of art to capture the complexities of human experience.